Avon (Ind.) defensive end Montez Robinson was recruited by schools from across the country but his heart was always in Auburn.

On Sunday, the 6-foot-5, 235-pounder, who is originally from West Blocton, Ala., made it official and committed to the Tigers following his official visit.

"I think he's thrilled to death with his decision," Avon head coach Dave Shelbourne said. "Coach Greg Knox, their recruiting coordinator, has been first-class all the way and their coaching staff has been terrific.

"We're kind of excited about him going down there just because they've been very good in the total recruiting process."

Shelbourne has coached Robinson since he transferred to Avon for his junior season.

"He's an outstanding natural athlete," Shelbourne said. "He's got good size and strength and speed. He's about 6-5 and now up to about 240 and he's a 4.5, 4.6 speed and he has a great work ethic in the weight room. He's a very fine football player for us.

"He is very intense on the field and makes a lot of big plays."

Shelbourne thinks AU is getting a player with a tremendous upside and one that's done everything asked of him on and off the field.